Our beloved daughter, Eleonora, was born a completely healthy baby, and until she was three months old, we had no idea she had a terrible genetic disease. After reaching three months, Norochka began to lag behind in her development, wasn't gaining weight well, and her muscles began to weaken. 

            To find a diagnosis, we had to travel all over Ukraine, but unfortunately, there wasn't a single specialist in our country who could diagnose and help our child. We found the answer in Moscow when Norochka was 8 months old. Genetic testing revealed that Eleanor had an incurable genetic disorder, — Leigh syndrome, which affects the mitochondrial cells responsible for producing the body's energy.

            In the summer of 2017 this diagnosis was finally confirmed in Kyiv. No one gave us a favorable prognosis, but we knew our girl was strong and would overcome everything. Until she was eighteen months old, Norochka received special nutrition and therapy. Surrounded by care and love, she was a special child, but with a good chance of a healthy life.

            In September of 2017 there were no signs of trouble, but Eleanor suddenly became ill. Her body couldn't cope, and a metabolic crisis occurred, followed by aspiration pneumonia, and our daughter was hospitalized in the intensive care unit of the Regional Children's Clinical Hospital. There, she suffered a stroke. Nora stopped breathing on her own and was placed on a ventilator. Doctors gave her no chance of survival, but we knew for sure that our daughter would live.

            Eleonora — She is a very strong child; she bravely fought for her life in intensive care for four months. When her condition became stable, we took her home. She is still on a ventilator; her breathing has not yet returned. We have created all the necessary intensive care conditions for Norochka's stay at home and purchased the necessary equipment. She is receiving metabolic therapy and special nutrition; without them, her life is impossible.

            During our child's stay in the hospital, our family's financial situation became extremely difficult. To provide Eleanor with everything she needs to survive, we need expensive supplies, special medications, and food every day, which are very expensive. Therefore, we are forced to ask all kind and caring people for financial assistance. Our daughter — is the strongest child in the world, and we hope and believe that she will be healthy.

For ways to help, see here.